Action Quote by Peter Singer
“The only justifiable stopping place for for the expansion of altruism is the point at which all whose welfare can be affected by our actions are included within the circle of altruism. This means that all beings with the capacity to feel pleasure or pain should be included; we can improve their welfare by increasing their pleasures and diminishing their pains.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Practical Ethics by Peter Singer, 1979
Altruism should expand to include all sentient beings, aiming to maximize pleasure and minimize pain for everyone.
In simple terms: Extend moral concern to all feeling beings.
Key Takeaway
Consider the impact of your actions on all sentient life.
Themes
ethics
altruism
animal rights
utilitarianism
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- consumer choices
- charitable giving
- animal welfare advocacy
Key Concepts
sentience
moral circle
welfare maximization
Questions to Reflect On
- How far should your moral circle extend?
- What actions can you take to broaden it?
A Different Perspective
Practical implementation can be complex; conflicts may arise with personal interests.
![“Nineteen thousand children [are] dying every day. Does it really matter that we're not walking past them in the street? Does it really matter that they're far away? I don't think it does make a morally relevant difference.” quote by Peter Singer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/cc1/peter-singer-1001_children_nineteen-thousand-children-are-dying-eve_33961.jpg)
